Ay Caramba: Timeless Latin Wedding Customs and Traditions

Sep 27, 2016 12:00 AM Back

America is steeped (heavily) in Spanish and Latin American culture and tradition….especially since our “founding father” Americo Vespucio (though himself Italian) sailed the seas of discovery for Spain.

Furthermore, many of our states such as Texas, California and Florida (to name a few) border Mexico and Puerto Rico and some of the first settlers were of Spanish heritage and decent.

Hosting an authentic Latino event means a soiree surrounded by lots of rich cultures and traditions.

Among these:

Night Lights: As part of a traditional Latino wedding, hand lanterns are carried to light the way from the groom’s house to the bride’s house the night before the big event. This as the groom’s family followed in procession carring a chest filled with gifts for the bride and her family.

Hide The Bride: It’s dad’s job to keep his bride out of the groom’s site before the big day. Additionally, the groom is expected to escort his mom down the aisle.

Mini Me’s: The flower girl and ring bearer are fashioned specifically after the bride and groom.

All The Glitters IS Gold: One of the most important aspects of the ceremony includes 13 gold coins (known as arras) representing Christ and his 12 apostles. These are blessed by the priest and presented to the bride as a symbol of consent from the groom to love, cherish and care for and support his bride for the rest of their lives.

Strings attached: The rope or rosary is another quintessential cultural tradition. The rope or rosary is placed over the bride and groom as a symbol of protection over their holy union.

This Wedding Sponsored By: Unlike traditional North American Weddings (where the parents or the couple pay), Spanish celebrations are sponsored by “god parents” who are subsequently honored in various ways throughout the ceremony and celebration such as giving them the responsibility of carrying the arras or rope/rosary.

Love In Bloom: Instead of a bridal bouquet the bride strides down the aisle holding a rosary and a bible while someone holds her floral arrangement for her. And, when it comes to Spanish brides, orange blossoms are typically the flower of choice… as they represent happiness and marital fulfillment. They are used not only in bouquets, but as hair accents and in centerpieces etc.\

Crowning Glory: The Manitilla veil is the traditional headpiece for Spanish/Latina brides.

Black and White Wedding Wear: While many North American brides of Spanish heritage opt for a white gown, brides in Spain are often clad in black to symbolize their devotion to their commitment of “until death do us part”.

Banding Together: Spanish couples usually wear their wedding rings on their right (rather than their left) hand.

Heart and Soul Music: Guests form a heart shaped “circle” around the couple as they dance their first dance as husband and wife. Additionally, the celebration is filled with the festive sounds of a mariachi band, salsa music, and/or a Spanish guitarist who serenades guests during the course of the party.

Festive Foods: Paella and other seafood dishes are common at Latin celebrations. And, Sangria is usually the signature drink or choice. Some Spanish factions such as those who hail from Mexico or Puerto Rico often opt for hot and spicy options such as spicy rice and beans, spicy steak (carne asada) and spicy tomatillo sauce. Plus, in truly authentic Latin celebrations you can expect to see almond cookies in addition to the cake.

“Pin Up” Girls: The bouquet toss is an American tradition you can expect to see at Spanish celebrations. But, a more common culture traditions call for all the single ladies to sport a special pin upside down. The lady who loses her pin during the course of the festivities is said to be the next in line to marry.

We Have Some Lovely Parting Gifts From The Bride and Groom: Favors usually include (Cuban) cigars for the gents and cookies, hand fans, or some other local food or household good for the ladies.